Walt Disney World is giving a behind-the-scenes look at the people who power the resort as the company plans to create more than 5,000 jobs over the next five years.
Walt Disney World says it has 80,000 cast members working across thousands of roles, from operations to professional positions. The company describes its cast members as its greatest investment and says four out of five choose to remain with Walt Disney World.
For many Central Floridians, Disney is more than a first job. The company says its workplace provides opportunities for employees to build skills and advance their careers.
Approximately three out of five Walt Disney World leaders began their careers in hourly roles, according to the company. Among full-time cast members in professional, leadership, and skilled roles, average tenure is 12 years, which Disney says is roughly three times the national average.
For new hires, the journey begins at Disney University’s Traditions, where cast members are introduced to Disney’s culture, values and guest experience. It is also where they receive their name tags and learn skills that support the resort’s operations.
“We invest in our cast members. We not only provide incredible benefits and perks to working at Disney, but it’s such a support community,” Kylee Withers, Walt Disney World Ambassador, said.
Disney says career growth remains a major reason people seek employment at Walt Disney World. The company supports advancement through leadership development and educational opportunities, including Disney Aspire.
Some cast members take their careers behind the scenes to Disney’s Costuming team, which supports what Disney describes as the largest working wardrobe operation in the world.
About 1,500 costuming cast members work across 46 costuming locations at the resort, helping ensure cast members are ready to step into their roles and bring Disney stories to life.
Michael, who works in costuming, said he started in the Walt Disney World College Program.
“I actually started in the Walt Disney World College Program. This is the only place I have ever dreamed of working,” he said.
He said working in costuming allows him to bring his passion to Disney’s storytelling and creative arts.
Across Walt Disney World, other careers begin in kitchens, restaurants and dining locations.
Brian Pisackei, director of culinary and concept development, started working in the restaurant business at 14, washing dishes. He said the energy, family and passion of the industry kept him interested in the work.
“That environment of energy and family and passion, I just never got out of it,” Pisackei said.
Disney also points to benefits and support programs for cast members, including medical, dental and vision coverage, health centers, educational programs and wellness resources. Two health centers currently serve cast members, with a third planned to open in 2027.
Disney says its greatest competitive advantage is not a ride, resort, or attraction, but the people behind the magic.